A novel series of potent, water-soluble benzodiazepine based CCKB/gast
rin antagonists has been prepared which incorporate an N-methylpiperaz
ine group at the C5 position of the benzodiazepine ring system. The N1
-n-propyl analogue (7b) is a high affinity, selective and potent recep
tor antagonist in vitro, with good bioavailability and excellent oral
absorption providing high plasma levels in vivo.